Honda CR-V pics leak out

The design of the new Honda CR-V will remain faithful to the concept version shown off earlier this year, as these leaked patent images show.

The manufacturer released the first official picture of the Honda CR-V SUV in the summer, and these new drawings show that many of the styling changes – designed to give the car a more aggressive stance – have been retained from the concept.

The CR-V is based on an all-new platform. The most prominent changes are at the front, where the CR-V features a wraparound lower front bumper that is better integrated into the rest of the front fascia than on the current car.

The three-bar horizontal front grille is also much more dominant than the current CR-V’s, with slimmed-down headlights flanking it on either side. Honda claims the front-end styling changes result in much improved aerodynamics over the current car.

Sculpted bodywork features on the sides, which also get more pronounced side sills. The large alloy wheels featured on the concept have been exchanged for more practical-looking variants.

At the rear, the CR-V will retain the vertical light design of the current car. The Japanese firm is also claiming an all-new, more spacious interior with a lower floor for improved load-carrying ability.

The Honda CR-V is one of the stars at the Orange County International Auto Show in California, which is taking place this week. The CR-V is set to reach UK showrooms in autumn 2012.

Engine details are still scarce, although improved efficiency and fuel economy is promised. The outgoing CR-V is available with a 2.0-litre petrol or 2.2-litre diesel engine, both of which produce 148bhp.